Fasteners and outlet systems

Abstract

The present invention provides a fastener and outlet system that can prevent the distance between the cable and the cord from becoming too large in a suspended outlet. [Solution] The fastener 2 is used in the outlet 1. The outlet 1 comprises a connection part 3, a housing 4, a cable 5, and a string 6. The connection part 3 is connected to a wiring duct 50 and supplied with power. The housing 4 houses the outlet part 10 into which the electrodes 102 of the plug 101 are inserted. The cable 5 is connected to the connection part 3 to supply power to the outlet part 10, and the string 6 is attached to the connection part 3 to suspend the housing 4. The fastener 2 comprises a fixing part 21 and a restricting part 22. The fixing part 21 fixes the cable 5. The restricting part 22 restricts the horizontal movement of the string 6.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a fixture and a socket-outlet system. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a fixture used for a socket-outlet and a socket-outlet system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a wiring device. The wiring device is a hanging-type socket-outlet used in a suspended state from a structure. The socket-outlet includes a connection part, a housing, a cord body, and a cable. The connection part is connected to a structure (wiring duct) to supply power. The housing houses the socket-outlet part. The cord body is attached to the connection part to suspend the housing. The cable is electrically connected to the connection part. The cable has a curled part.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in the hanging-type socket-outlet having the above configuration, when the cable is in a straight shape or a curled shape that is more gentle than before, the distance between the cord body suspending the housing and the cable may be greatly increased.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a fixture and a socket-outlet system capable of suppressing a large separation between a cable and a cord body in a hanging-type socket-outlet.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A fastener according to one aspect of the present disclosure is used for an electrical outlet. The outlet comprises a connector, a housing, a cable, and a cord. The connector is connected to a wiring duct and supplied with power. The housing houses an outlet for inserting the electrodes of a plug. The cable is connected to the connector and supplies power to the outlet. The cord is attached to the connector and suspends the housing. The fastener comprises a fixing portion and a restricting portion. The fixing portion secures the cable. The restricting portion restricts the horizontal movement of the cord.

[0007] An outlet system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a fastener and an outlet. The outlet has a connector, a housing, a cable, and a cord. The connector is connected to a wiring duct and supplied with power. The housing houses an outlet for inserting the electrodes of a plug. The cable is connected to the connector and supplies power to the outlet. The cord is attached to the connector and suspends the housing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it becomes possible to provide a fastener and outlet system that can suppress the large distance between the cable and the cord in a hanging type outlet. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an outlet system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a plan view of the fastener shown above in the closed position. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view of the fastener shown above in the open position. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the main part of the outlet shown above. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of the same electrical outlet. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of the same electrical outlet. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of the main components of the same electrical outlet. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the outlet shown above. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the usage of the fastener shown above. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a plan view of the modified fastener in a closed state. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a plan view of the fastener shown above in the open position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The fasteners and outlet systems according to the embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the figures described in the following embodiments are schematic diagrams, and the dimensional ratios of the sizes of each component do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios. Furthermore, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0011] (Embodiment) (1) Overview Figure 1 is a perspective view of an outlet system 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a partially enlarged view of Figure 1.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the outlet system 100 comprises an outlet 1 and a fastener 2. The outlet 1 is a suspended type outlet that is connected to a wiring duct 50 and used suspended from the wiring duct 50. The wiring duct 50 is installed or suspended from the ceiling of the building. The building in which the outlet 1 is used may be a non-residential building such as a factory, school, shop, and hospital, or it may be a detached house or an apartment building.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the socket 1 includes a connection part 3, a housing 4, a cable 5, and a string body 6.

[0014] The connection part 3 is connected to the wiring duct 50 and supplied with power. The housing 4 houses the socket part 10 for inserting the electrode 102 of the plug 101. The housing 4 is suspended from the wiring duct 50. The cable 5 is connected to the connection part 3 to supply power to the socket part 10. The string body 6 is attached to the connection part 3 and suspends the housing 4. As shown in FIG. 1, the string body 6 suspends the housing 4 in the vertical direction according to the weight of the housing 4 that houses the socket part 10. Hereinafter, the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction (orthogonal) may be referred to as the horizontal direction. The socket part 10 is configured such that the plug 101 connected to the electric device is connected. The socket part 10 is, for example, for AC 100V. The socket part 10 supplies power to the electric device via the plug 101. The electric device connected to the socket part 10 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, an information terminal (smartphone, tablet, laptop computer, etc.), a cleaning device, an air cleaner, or the like.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the fastener 2 is used for the socket 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the fastener 2 includes a first insertion hole 21 and a second insertion hole 22. The cable 5 is passed through the first insertion hole 21. The cable 5 is fixed in the fastener 2 by the first insertion hole 21. Further, the string body 6 is passed through the second insertion hole 22. The horizontal movement of the string body 6 in the fastener 2 is restricted by the second insertion hole 22. The first insertion hole 21 corresponds to the "fixing part" referred to in the present disclosure. Further, the second insertion hole 22 corresponds to the "restricting part" referred to in the present disclosure.

[0016] According to the fastener 2 and the socket system 100 of the present embodiment, in the hanging type socket 1, it is possible to suppress the distance between the cable 5 and the string body 6 from being greatly separated. Thereby, the cable 5 can be made into a straight shape or a more gentle curl shape than before.

[0017] Note that the cable 5 being in a straight shape means that the cable 5 is in a state along the vertical direction. Also, the gentle curl shape means that the cable 5 is slightly curved in the horizontal direction. The hanging-type socket 1 using such a cable 5 does not impair the aesthetics of the surrounding people (for example, users of electrical equipment, etc.) in spaces such as offices and stores.

[0018] (2) Details Hereinafter, the socket system 100 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. Note that, for convenience, in FIGS. 5 to 9, the illustration of the cable 5 and the cord body 6 is omitted. The socket system 100 includes a socket 1 and a fixture 2.

[0019] (2.1) Socket As described above, the socket 1 of the present embodiment is a hanging-type socket used in a state of being attached to the wiring duct 50.

[0020] Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, the direction perpendicular to (orthogonal to) the horizontal plane in the state where the socket 1 is attached to the wiring duct 50 is referred to as the "vertical direction", and the vertical direction is referred to as the "downward direction" for explanation. Also, the direction orthogonal to the vertical direction and in which the first half 70A and the second half 70B in the reel case 70 are combined is referred to as the "front-rear direction", and the side of the second half 70B as viewed from the first half 70A is referred to as the "front" for explanation. Further, the direction orthogonal to both the vertical direction and the front-rear direction is referred to as the "left-right direction", and the right side as viewed from the front of the socket 1 is referred to as the "right side" and the left side as the "left side" for explanation. Note that the arrows indicating the "vertical direction", "front-rear direction", and "left-right direction" in the drawings are only shown for explanation and do not have an actual state. However, these directions are not intended to limit the usage direction of the socket 1.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, the socket 1 includes a connection portion 3, a housing 4, a cable 5, and a cord body 6.

[0022] The connection part 3 is electrically connected to the wiring duct 50 and is configured to receive power from the wiring duct 50.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the housing 4 is suspended from the wiring duct 50. The housing 4 houses the outlet section 10 for inserting the electrodes 102 of the plug 101. As shown in Figure 1, the outlet section 10 has a rectangular connection surface 12. The housing 4 houses the outlet section 10 such that the connection surface 12 is exposed to the outside. Multiple (in this case, two) insertion holes 11 are formed in the connection surface 12 for inserting the two electrodes 102 of the plug 101. The housing 4 is made of synthetic resin and houses the outlet section 10, etc.

[0024] As shown in Figure 5, the housing 4 includes a cylindrical body 41. The cylindrical body 41 is made of a single component. More specifically, the cylindrical body 41 is a hollow, bottomed cylinder with an open bottom and a closed top. The cylindrical body 41 includes a bottom wall 42 and side walls 43. The bottom wall 42 forms the upper bottom surface of the cylinder. The side walls 43 form the sides of the cylinder. The bottom wall 42 is located on the opposite side of the cylindrical body 41 from the connecting surface 12 (see Figure 1). A circular string hole 422 is formed in the center of the bottom wall 42. A string 6 is passed through the string hole 422. The string 6 is introduced into the housing 4 from the string hole 422, and its end is fixed to the reel 7. In this way, the string 6 suspends the housing 4. The bottom wall 42 also has a cable hole 421 for passing a cable 5 through. The cable hole 421 is racetrack shaped. Cable 5 is introduced into the interior of the housing 4 through the cable hole 421, and its end is electrically connected to the outlet section 10 inside the housing 4.

[0025] The top surface (bottom wall 42) of the housing 4 is a substantially flat surface with no protruding parts except for the cable 5 and the cord 6. The outer surface of the side wall 43 is cylindrical. An operation hole 423 is formed in the part of the side wall 43 slightly below the center in the vertical direction. The operation hole 423 is circular in shape. The operation button 9 is a flattened bottomed cylindrical shape and is housed in the operation hole 423 of the cylindrical body 41 so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The hanging type outlet 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a reel mechanism inside the housing 4 that allows adjustment of the length of the cord 6, and the operation button 9 is used to adjust the length of the cord 6. Details of the reel mechanism will be described later (see (2.3) Reel Mechanism below). The outer surface of the operation button 9 is formed as a smooth curved surface so as to be continuous with the outer surface (cylindrical surface) of the side wall 43. Therefore, the outer surface of the side wall 43 including the operation button 9 is a smooth curved surface (cylindrical surface).

[0026] The opening on the bottom of the cylindrical body 41 is closed by a disc-shaped housing 14 (see Figure 6). A rectangular window frame is formed in the center of the housing 14, and when the opening on the bottom of the cylindrical body 41 is closed by the housing 14, the connecting surface 12 with the insertion hole 11 is exposed from the center of the housing 14, as shown in Figure 1.

[0027] Cable 5 is a cord in which multiple core wires (a pair of power wires) are insulated. Cable 5 may be insulated individually, for example, as in vinyl parallel cord (VFF), or multiple core wires may be insulated together, as shown in Figure 1.

[0028] Cable 5 is connected to the connector 3 and used to supply power to the outlet 10. Cable 5 has a first connector end and a second connector end. The first connector end of cable 5 is introduced into the connector 3 through the first through-hole 31 (see Figure 1) of the connector 3. Inside the connector 3, the multiple core wires of the first connector end of cable 5 are each connected to multiple electrodes. In this way, the first connector end of cable 5 is electrically connected to the connector 3.

[0029] The second connection end of cable 5 is introduced into the housing 4. More specifically, the second connection end of cable 5 is introduced into the housing 4 through a cable hole 421 (see Figure 5) provided in the bottom wall 42 of the cylindrical body 41. The second connection end of cable 5 then passes vertically through a gap provided between the inner surface of the side wall 43 of the cylindrical body 41 and the rear wall of the first half 70A that constitutes the reel case 70. At the bottom of the reel case 70, multiple core wires of the second connection end of cable 5 are connected to multiple blade receiving members of the outlet section 10. In this way, the second connection end of cable 5 is electrically connected to the outlet section 10 inside the housing 4.

[0030] The string 6 has a first end and a second end. The string 6 is, for example, a wire. The first end of the string 6 is fixed to the connector 3. More specifically, as shown in Figure 1, the first end of the string 6 is introduced into the connector 3 through a second through hole 32 formed on the lower surface of the connector 3, and the first end of the string 6 is fixed to the connector 3 inside the connector 3. The second end of the string 6 is introduced into the housing 4 through a string hole 422 (see Figure 5) and fixed to the reel 7 (see Figure 7). The string 6 is pulled out to the outside of the housing 4. In this way, the string 6 is attached to the connector 3 and suspends the housing 4.

[0031] The cord 6 suspends the housing 4 downwards from the lower end of the connection part 3 of the outlet 1 and the upper end of the housing 4, according to the weight of the housing 4 that houses the outlet 10 (see Figure 1). In this embodiment, the cable 5 is formed in a gentle spiral shape with the cord 6 at its center, between the lower end of the connection part 3 of the outlet 1 and the upper end of the housing 4. In the outlet system 100 of this embodiment, fasteners 2 are attached to the cable 5 and the cord 6 between the lower end of the connection part 3 of the outlet 1 and the upper end of the housing 4 (see Figure 1).

[0032] (2.2) Fasteners As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the fastener 2 of this embodiment comprises a first part 23 and a second part 24. The fastener 2 can be constructed by joining the first part 23 and the second part 24. In this embodiment, the first part 23A and the second part 24A are integrally connected via a hinge mechanism 25, as will be described later.

[0033] More specifically, the first part 23 is provided with a first bonding surface 231. The first bonding surface 231 has a flat surface along the longitudinal direction of the first part 23. In this embodiment, the first bonding surface 231 is rectangular when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the first bonding surface 231. The first bonding surface 231 is provided with a first recess 232 and a second recess 233. The first recess 232 and the second recess 233 are provided at a predetermined distance from each other in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23.

[0034] The first recess 232 is a semicircular groove in plan view. In Figures 3 and 4, the first recess 232 extends along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper. The diameter D1 of the semicircle of the first recess 232 corresponds to the diameter S1 of the cable 5. The second recess 233 is a semicircular groove in plan view. In Figures 3 and 4, the second recess 233 extends along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper. The diameter D2 of the semicircle of the second recess 233 corresponds to the diameter S2 of the string 6. Therefore, the width of the groove in the first recess 232 is greater than the width of the groove in the second recess 233.

[0035] The second part 24 is provided with a second bonding surface 241. The second bonding surface 241 has a flat surface along the longitudinal direction of the second part 24. In this embodiment, the second bonding surface 241 is rectangular when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the second bonding surface 241. The area of ​​the second bonding surface 241 and the area of ​​the first bonding surface 231 are approximately the same size. The second bonding surface 241 is provided with a third recess 242 and a fourth recess 243. The third recess 242 and the fourth recess 243 are provided at a predetermined distance apart in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24. The distance between the third recess 242 and the fourth recess 243 in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24 is equal to the distance between the first recess 232 and the second recess 233 in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23.

[0036] The third recess 242 is a semicircular groove in plan view. In Figures 3 and 4, the third recess 242 extends along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper. The semicircle diameter D1 of the third recess 242 corresponds to the diameter S1 of the cable 5. The fourth recess 243 is a semicircular groove in plan view. In Figures 3 and 4, the fourth recess 243 extends along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper. The semicircle diameter D2 of the fourth recess 243 corresponds to the diameter S2 of the string 6. Therefore, the width of the groove in the third recess 242 is greater than the width of the groove in the fourth recess 243.

[0037] As described above, the semicircular diameter D1 of the first recess 232 and the semicircular diameter D1 of the third recess 242 correspond to the diameter S1 of the cable 5. The first recess 232 of the first part 23 corresponds to the third recess 242 of the second part 24. As a result, when the first connecting surface 231 and the second connecting surface 241 are joined, the first recess 232 and the third recess 242 can form the first insertion hole 21 (see Figure 3). Then, as shown in Figure 2, by passing the cable 5 through the first insertion hole 21, the cable 5 can be fixed in the fastener 2.

[0038] Furthermore, as described above, the semicircular diameter D2 of the second recess 233 and the semicircular diameter D2 of the fourth recess 243 correspond to the diameter S2 of the cord 6. The second recess 233 of the first part 23 corresponds to the fourth recess 243 of the second part 24. Also, as described above, the distance between the third recess 242 and the fourth recess 243 in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24 is equal to the distance between the first recess 232 and the second recess 233 in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23. As a result, when the first connecting surface 231 and the second connecting surface 241 are joined, the second insertion hole 22 can be formed by the second recess 233 and the fourth recess 243 (see Figure 3). Then, as shown in Figure 2, by passing the cord 6 through the second insertion hole 22, it becomes possible to restrict the horizontal movement of the cord 6 in the fastener 2.

[0039] In this way, the first insertion hole 21 and the second insertion hole 22 are formed by joining the first part 23 and the second part 24. The fastener 2 makes it possible to maintain the string 6 and the cable 5 at a constant distance apart in the horizontal direction.

[0040] Here, if we let D1 be the diameter of the first insertion hole 21 and S1 be the diameter of the cable 5, the following relationship (1) holds.

[0041] D1 ≤ S1···(1) In other words, the diameter D1 of the first insertion hole 21 is less than or equal to the diameter S1 of the cable 5. As shown in Figure 2, the first insertion hole 21 can be used to support the cable 5 by clamping it, making it possible to securely fix the cable 5 to the fastener 2.

[0042] Furthermore, when the diameter of the second insertion hole 22 is D2 and the diameter of the cord 6 is S2, the following relationship (2) holds.

[0043] D2 > S2···(2) In other words, the diameter D2 of the second insertion hole 22 is larger than the diameter S2 of the cord 6. The range of movement of the cord 6 passed through the second insertion hole 22 is limited to the inside of the second insertion hole 22. The second insertion hole 22 makes it possible to restrict the horizontal movement of the cord 6 in the fastener 2, as shown in Figure 2.

[0044] As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the fastener 2 further comprises a hinge mechanism 25 and a locking mechanism 26. The hinge mechanism 25 is provided at the first ends in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23 and the second part 24. In other words, the first ends in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23 and the first ends in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24 are connected by the hinge mechanism 25. The first end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge mechanism 25 is connected to the first end of the first part 23. The second end in the longitudinal direction of the hinge mechanism 25 is connected to the first end of the second part 24. This allows the first part 23 and the second part 24 to rotate relative to the hinge mechanism 25. In this way, the hinge mechanism 25 is configured to open and close the second connecting surface 241 of the second part 24 relative to the first connecting surface 231 of the first part 23.

[0045] The locking mechanism 26 is provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23 and the second part 24. The locking mechanism 26 has a hook portion 261 and a projection portion 262. The projection portion 262 is provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23. The projection portion 262 protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23. The hook portion 261 is provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24. The tip of the hook portion 261 is curved inward in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24. This allows the tip of the hook portion 261 to engage with the projection portion 262 when the first coupling surface 231 and the second coupling surface 241 are coupled. In this way, the locking mechanism 26 is configured to fix the first part 23 and the second part 24 when the first coupling surface 231 and the second coupling surface 241 are coupled.

[0046] The method for attaching fastener 2 will now be described. First, the user, for example, holds the first part 23 by hand and inserts the cable 5 into the first recess 232 of the first coupling surface 231, and inserts the string 6 into the second recess 233 of the first coupling surface 231. Then, the user rotates the second part 24 relative to the first part 23 around the hinge mechanism 25, connecting the second coupling surface 241 of the second part 24 to the first coupling surface 231 of the first part 23. The first part 23 and the second part 24 are then fixed in place by the locking mechanism 26. The fastener 2 is formed by the connection of the first part 23 and the second part 24. In fastener 2, the cable 5 is fixed by the first insertion hole 21. In fastener 2, the horizontal movement of the string 6 is restricted by the second insertion hole 22. In this way, the user attaches fastener 2 to the cable 5 and the string 6. In this embodiment, the fastener 2, with its locking mechanism 26, can securely fasten the cable 5 and the cord 6.

[0047] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the fastener 2 of this embodiment is constructed integrally with the first part 23 and the second part 24 via a hinge mechanism 25, making it possible to treat them as a single part. This makes it easier to manage the part numbers of the fastener 2.

[0048] The left diagram in Figure 10 shows the fastener 2 with the above configuration being used on the outlet 1. The fastener 2 makes it possible to prevent the distance between the cable 5 and the cord 6 from becoming too large. When the cable 5 is fixed by the fastener 2, the cable 5 is formed in a gentle spiral shape with the cord 6 at the center between the lower end of the connection part 3 of the outlet 1 and the upper end of the housing 4. In this way, even though the cable 5 has a gentle curl shape, it does not detract from the aesthetics of people in the surrounding area (for example, users of electrical equipment).

[0049] Furthermore, generally speaking, cables with a coiled section tend to use more copper wire because their actual length is longer than the distance from the connection point to the housing. In contrast, as in this embodiment, by making the cable 5 have a gentler coiled shape than conventional cables, it becomes possible to reduce the amount of copper wire used in the cable 5.

[0050] (2.3) Reel mechanism The hanging type outlet 1 of this embodiment further includes a reel 7 that allows adjustment of the length of the cord 6 (see Figures 7 to 9). The reel 7 is rotatably housed inside the housing 4 and is configured to allow winding and unwinding of the cord 6. The reel 7 is made of synthetic resin, and as an example, it is made of ABS resin. More specifically, the reel 7 is housed inside a reel case 70. The reel case 70 is a hollow rectangular box. The reel case 70 is composed of a first half 70A and a second half 70B. The first half 70A and the second half 70B are joined to each other, for example, using an adhesive member (not shown).

[0051] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the reel 7 comprises a first drum 71, a first flange 72, and a second flange 73. The first drum 71 is cylindrical and around which the string 6 is wound. The first flange 72 protrudes radially from the front edge of the first drum 71. The second flange 73 protrudes radially from the rear edge of the first drum 71. In other words, the reel 7 is formed in a so-called bobbin shape. A string-hanging groove (not shown) is formed in the first flange 72, and one end of the string 6 is hooked into the string-hanging groove and fixed. A second drum 74 protrudes rearward from the outer edge of the second flange 73. The second drum 74 is cylindrical with a larger diameter than the first drum 71 and is formed concentrically with the first drum 71. At least one (four in this case) recesses 75 are formed radially recessed on the circumference of the second drum 74.

[0052] Furthermore, the reel 7 has a front wall 711 located in the front-to-back direction, forward of the center and rearward of the first flange 72 (see Figures 7 and 8). A rotating shaft 712 is provided on the rear surface of the front wall 711 concentrically with the first drum 71. A cylindrical third drum 713 is provided on the front surface of the front wall 711 concentrically with the rotating shaft 712. The rotating shaft 712 is rotatably inserted into a shaft hole provided in the first half 70A, while the third drum 713 is inserted into a hollow recess 714 provided in the second half 70B. As a result, the reel 7 is held in the reel case 70 so as to be rotatable clockwise and counterclockwise when viewed from the front.

[0053] Furthermore, a spring retaining frame 715 is provided on the rear surface of the front wall 711. The spring retaining frame 715 is cylindrical in shape with a smaller diameter than the first drum 71. An insertion groove (not shown) is formed in the spring retaining frame 715, into which one end of the winding spring 717 (see Figure 9) is inserted. The winding spring 717 is a so-called mainspring, and is constructed by winding an elastic metal plate in a spiral shape. When viewed from the front, the winding spring 717 has a spiral shape that rotates counterclockwise from the inside to the outside. Here, a spiral means a curve that moves away from the center as it rotates on the same plane. The outer end of the winding spring 717 is inserted into and held in the insertion groove of the spring retaining frame 715, and the inner end is held in a retaining cylinder 716 provided in the first half 70A (see Figure 9). The winding spring 717 provides the reel 7 with an elastic force in the direction that winds the string 6 (clockwise when viewed from the front).

[0054] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, outlet 1 further comprises a stopper 8 and an operating button 9. The stopper 8 is a member that restricts the rotation of the reel 7 and is formed by, for example, punching and bending an elastic metal plate. The stopper 8 is located inside the reel case 70, below the reel 7. The stopper 8 is held by a holding part 718. The holding part 718 is provided in the first half 70A of the reel case 70.

[0055] The stopper 8 has a fixed end 81, an elastic part 82, a movable part 83, and a hook piece 84. The fixed end 81 is the part of the stopper 8 that is held by the holding part 718. The elastic part 82 is continuous with the fixed end 81. The elastic part 82 is made of a cantilevered leaf spring and is elastically deformable in the thickness direction relative to the fixed end 81. The movable part 83 is continuous with the elastic part 82 and is located on the opposite side of the elastic part 82 from the fixed end 81.

[0056] The stopper 8 is positioned such that the movable part 83 is displaced downward relative to the fixed end 81, with the elastic part 82 elastically deformed so that the movable part 83 is positioned within the recess 75 of the reel 7. The rotation of the reel 7 is restricted when the stopper 8 fits into the recess 75.

[0057] Hereafter, the position of the stopper 8 in this state will be referred to as the "restricted position." At the restricted position, the rotation of the reel 7 in the direction of winding the string 6 is restricted.

[0058] The hook piece 84 extends downward (more specifically, in the direction in which the elastic part 82 elastically deforms) from the boundary between the elastic part 82 and the movable part 83. The hook piece 84 is formed in a J-shape when viewed from the front and has a shape that catches on the rear end of the push rod 76 of the operating button 9. When the push rod 76 is displaced backward, the hook piece 84 is pushed downward by the push rod 76. When the hook piece 84 is pushed downward by the push rod 76, the elastic part 82 elastically deforms downward, and the movable part 83 comes out of the recess 75. Hereinafter, the position of the stopper 8 when the movable part 83 is out of the recess 75 will be referred to as the "release position". In the release position, since the movable part 83 is located outside the recess 75, rotation of the reel 7 in the direction of winding the string 6 is permitted. Therefore, the string 6 is wound onto the reel 7 by the restoring force of the winding spring 717. In other words, the stopper 8 is displaced between a "restricting position" that restricts the rotation of the reel 7 in the direction of winding the string 6, and a "release position" that allows the rotation of the reel 7.

[0059] The operating button 9 displaces the stopper 8 between a "restricted position" and a "released position" in response to user operation. More specifically, the operating button 9 is a flattened bottomed cylindrical shape and is housed in an operating hole 423 (see Figure 5) of the cylindrical body 41 so as to be movable in the front-rear direction. The operating button 9 has a rod-shaped push rod 76. When the operating button 9 is pressed down by the user, the push rod 76 moves backward, pushing down the hook piece 84 of the stopper 8. This displaces the stopper 8 from the restricted position to the released position. A return spring (not shown) is also located inside the operating button 9, and when the user releases their hand from the operating button 9, the restoring force of the return spring moves the operating button 9 forward. This eliminates the force from the push rod 76 on the hook piece 84, and the stopper 8 is displaced from the released position to the restricted position by the restoring force of the elastic part 82.

[0060] In this embodiment, the outlet 1 consists of a reel 7 and a stopper 8 that form a ratchet mechanism. The ratchet mechanism allows the reel 7 to rotate in the direction that unwinds the string 6, but prohibits the reel 7 from rotating in the direction that winds the string 6. The ratchet mechanism restricts the direction of rotation of the reel 7 so that only the unwinding of the string 6 is possible, so the string 6 can be pulled out from the housing 4 by pulling it. When the operation button 9 is operated with the string 6 unwinding, the restriction by the ratchet mechanism is released, and the restoring force acting on the reel 7 from the winding spring 717 causes the reel 7 to rotate in the direction that winds the string 6. The distance between the connection part 3 of the outlet 1 and the housing 4 is determined by the amount of string 6 unwinding from the housing 4, so the housing 4 moves vertically as the reel 7 winds and unwinds the string 6.

[0061] As described above, in the outlet 1 of this embodiment, the housing 4 can be raised and lowered while suspended from the connection part 3. This allows the height of the housing 4 to be adjusted. In other words, the user can lower the housing 4 by holding it with their hand and pulling it. The user can also raise the housing 4 by operating the operation button 9 (see Figure 10). When the housing 4 is raised, the restoring force acting on the reel 7 causes the cord 6 to be wound up, but the length of the cable 5 does not change. Therefore, before the housing 4 is raised, as shown in Figure 10, the cable 5 is formed in a gentle spiral shape with the cord 6 at its center, but as the housing 4 is raised, the portion of the cable 5 below the fastener 2 bends horizontally with the cord 6 at its center.

[0062] (2.4) Effects According to the fastener 2 and outlet system 100 of this embodiment, it becomes possible to suppress the large distance between the cable 5 and the cord 6 in the hanging type outlet 1.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the fastener 2 of this embodiment further comprises a first component 23 and a second component 24, and the fastener 2 can be constructed by joining the first component 23 and the second component 24. This makes it easier to attach the fastener 2 to the cable 5 and the cord 6.

[0064] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the fastener 2 of this embodiment can support the cable 5 by sandwiching it between the first recess 232 provided in the first component 23 and the third recess 242 provided in the second component 24. This prevents the fastener 2 itself from falling.

[0065] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2, 3, and 4, the fastener 2 of this embodiment is constructed with the first part 23 and the second part 24 integrally connected via the hinge mechanism 25, making it possible to treat it as a single part. This makes it easier to manage the part numbers of the fastener 2. In addition, the locking mechanism 26 makes it possible to securely fasten the cable 5 and the cord 6.

[0066] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the fastener 2 of this embodiment has a first insertion hole 21 formed by the first recess 232 and the third recess 242, and a second insertion hole 22 formed by the second recess 233 and the fourth recess 243. By passing the cable 5 through the first insertion hole 21, the cable 5 can be fixed to the fastener 2. In addition, by passing the string 6 through the second insertion hole 22, the movement of the string 6 can be restricted within the fastener 2.

[0067] In this embodiment, the fastener 2 has a first insertion hole 21 with a diameter D1 that is less than or equal to the diameter S1 of the cable 5, and a second insertion hole 22 with a diameter D2 that is greater than the diameter S2 of the cord 6 (see Figure 2). This makes it possible to securely fix the cable 5 to the fastener 2 by passing the cable 5 through the first insertion hole 21.

[0068] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, the outlet 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a reel 7 inside the housing 4 that is configured to allow winding and unwinding of the cord 6. This makes it possible to adjust the length of the cord 6.

[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, the outlet 1 of this embodiment includes a stopper 8 that displaces between a restricting position that restricts the rotation of the reel 7 and a release position that allows the rotation of the reel 7, and an operating button 9. This allows the length of the cord 6 to be changed with simple operation.

[0070] (3) Variant The above embodiments are merely one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The above embodiments can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as they achieve the objectives of this disclosure.

[0071] The following lists some modifications of the above embodiment. The modifications described below can be combined and applied as appropriate.

[0072] In the above embodiment, the fastener 2 is equipped with a hinge mechanism 25 and a locking mechanism 26 (see Figures 2, 3, and 4), but it may also be equipped with two locking mechanisms.

[0073] The following describes the detailed configuration of the modified fastener 2A. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the fastener 2A comprises a first part 23A and a second part 24A, similar to the above embodiment. The first part 23A and the second part 24A are separate components, and the fastener 2A further comprises a first locking mechanism 26A and a second locking mechanism 26B, which differs from the above embodiment. The first locking mechanism 26A is provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A and the second part 24A. The first locking mechanism 26A has a hook portion 261 provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24A and a projection portion 262 provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A. The projection portion 262 provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A. The tip of the hook portion 261, which is provided at the first longitudinal end of the second part 24A, is curved inward in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24A.

[0074] The second locking mechanism 26B is provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A and the second part 24A. The second locking mechanism 26B has a hook portion 261 provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24A and a projection portion 262 provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A. The projection portion 262 provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A protrudes outward in the longitudinal direction of the first part 23A. The tip of the hook portion 261 provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24A is curved inward in the longitudinal direction of the second part 24A.

[0075] In other words, in this embodiment, the projection 262 of the first locking mechanism 26A is provided at the first longitudinal end of the first component 23A. The projection 262 of the second locking mechanism 26B is provided at the second longitudinal end of the first component 23A. Furthermore, the hook portion 261 of the first locking mechanism 26A is provided at the first longitudinal end of the second component 24A. The projection 262 of the second locking mechanism 26B is provided at the second longitudinal end of the second component 24A.

[0076] As a result, when the first connecting surface 231 and the second connecting surface 241 are joined, the first locking mechanism 26A allows the tip of the hook portion 261 provided at the first end of the second part 24A to engage with the projection 262 provided at the first end of the first part 23A. Also, when the first connecting surface 231 and the second connecting surface 241 are joined, the second locking mechanism 26B allows the tip of the hook portion 261 provided at the second end of the second part 24A to engage with the projection 262 provided at the second end of the first part 23A.

[0077] Thus, the first locking mechanism 26A and the second locking mechanism 26B are configured to fix the first component 23 and the second component 24 while the first coupling surface 231 and the second coupling surface 241 are coupled together.

[0078] The method for attaching fastener 2A will now be described. First, the user holds the first component 23A in their hand and inserts the cable 5 into the first recess 232 of the first coupling surface 231, and inserts the string 6 into the second recess 233 of the first coupling surface 231. Then, the user holds the second component 24A in their hand and, with the second coupling surface 241 of the second component 24 connected to the first coupling surface 231 of the first component 23, fixes the first component 23A and the second component 24A using the first locking mechanism 26A and the second locking mechanism 26B. The fastener 2A is formed by the connection of the first component 23A and the second component 24. In fastener 2A, the cable 5 is fixed by the first insertion hole 21. In fastener 2A, the horizontal movement of the string 6 is restricted by the second insertion hole 22. In this way, the user attaches the fastener 2A to the cable 5 and the string 6. The fastener 2A in this modified version can securely fasten the cable 5 and the string 6 with the first locking mechanism 26A and the second locking mechanism 26B.

[0079] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the fastener 2A of this modified example has the first part 23A and the second part 24A as separate components, making it easier to attach the fastener 2A to the cable 5 and the string 6.

[0080] In the fastener 2 of the above embodiment and the modified fastener 2A, the cross-sectional shape of the first insertion hole 21 through which the cable 5 is inserted was circular. However, other cross-sectional shapes such as an ellipse, triangle, or polygon may be used as long as they can support the cable 5 by sandwiching it. This allows the cable 5 to be fixed in the fastener 2.

[0081] In the above embodiment, where "less than or equal to" is used to compare the diameter D1 of the first insertion hole 21 and the diameter S1 of the cable 5, it may also be used to mean "smaller than". In other words, whether or not the case where the two values ​​are equal is included in the comparison of the two values ​​can be arbitrarily changed depending on the setting of the reference value, etc., so there is no technical difference between "less than or equal to" and "smaller than".

[0082] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, where "greater than" is used in the comparison of the two values, the diameter D2 of the second insertion hole 22 and the diameter S2 of the string 6, it may also be used as "greater than or equal to". In other words, whether or not the case where the two values ​​are equal is included in the comparison of the two values ​​can be arbitrarily changed depending on the setting of the reference value, etc., so there is no technical difference between "greater than or equal to" and "greater than".

[0083] In the above embodiment, the operating button 9 is a flattened, bottomed cylindrical shape as shown in Figures 5 to 8, but it may have other shapes. For example, the operating button 9 may be a rod-shaped lever.

[0084] In the above embodiment, the stopper 8 has a fixed end 81, an elastic part 82, a movable part 83, and a hook piece 84, as shown in Figures 7 to 9, but it may have other shapes. In short, the stopper 8 only needs to have a shape that can be displaced between a "restricting position" that restricts the rotation of the reel 7 and a "release position" that allows the rotation of the reel 7.

[0085] In the above embodiment, the hinge mechanism 25 connects the first part 23 and the second part 24 at one point, as shown in Figures 2 to 4. However, it is also possible to configure the first part 23 and the second part 24 to be connected at multiple points.

[0086] (summary) Based on the embodiments described above, the following aspects are disclosed.

[0087] The fastener (2, 2A) of the first embodiment is used in an outlet (1). The outlet (1) comprises a connector (3), a housing (4), a cable (5), and a cord (6). The connector (3) is connected to a wiring duct (50) to supply power. The housing (4) houses an outlet section (10) into which the electrodes (102) of a plug (101) are inserted. The cable (5) is connected to the connector (3) to supply power to the outlet section (10). The cord (6) is attached to the connector (3) to suspend the housing (4). The fastener (2, 2A) comprises a fixing section (21) and a restricting section (22). The fixing section (21) fixes the cable (5). The restricting section (22) restricts the horizontal movement of the cord (6).

[0088] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to suppress the large distance between the cable (5) and the cord (6) in a hanging type outlet (1).

[0089] The fastener (2, 2A) of the second embodiment further comprises, in the first embodiment, a first component (23, 23A) and a second component (24, 24A). It is constructed by joining the first component (23, 23A) and the second component (24, 24A).

[0090] According to this embodiment, the fastener (2, 2A) can be constructed by joining the first component (23, 23A) and the second component (24, 24A). This makes it easier to attach the fastener (2, 2A) to the cable (5) and the string (6).

[0091] In the third embodiment of the fastener (2, 2A), the first coupling surface (231) of the first component (23) is provided with a first recess (232) and a second recess (233). The second coupling surface (241) of the second component (24) is provided with a third recess (242) corresponding to the first recess (232) and a fourth recess (243) corresponding to the second recess (233). When the first coupling surface (231) and the second coupling surface (241) are coupled, the cable (5) is sandwiched and supported by the first recess (232) and the third recess (242). The movement of the cord (6) is restricted by the second recess (233) and the fourth recess (243).

[0092] According to this embodiment, the cable (5) can be supported by being sandwiched between the first recess (232) provided in the first part (23) and the third recess (242) provided in the second part (24). This makes it possible to prevent the fasteners (2, 2A) themselves from falling.

[0093] The fastener (2) of the fourth embodiment further comprises, in the second or third embodiment, a hinge mechanism (25) and a locking mechanism (26). The hinge mechanism (25) is provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first part (23) and the second part (24). The locking mechanism (26) is provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part (23) and the second part (24). The hinge mechanism (25) is configured to open and close the second connecting surface (241) of the second part (24) relative to the first connecting surface (231) of the first part (23). The locking mechanism (26) is configured to fix the first part (23) and the second part (24) in a state where the first connecting surface (231) and the second connecting surface (241) are connected.

[0094] According to this embodiment, the first part (23) and the second part (24) can be integrally constructed via the hinge mechanism (25), making it possible to treat them as a single part. This makes it easier to manage the part numbers of the fasteners (2). In addition, the locking mechanism (26) makes it possible to securely fix the cable (5) and the cord (6).

[0095] The fastener (2A) of the fifth embodiment further comprises, in the second or third embodiment, a first locking mechanism (26A) and a second locking mechanism (26B). The first locking mechanism (26A) is provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first component (23A) and the second component (24A). The second locking mechanism (26B) is provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first component (23A) and the second component (24A). The first locking mechanism (26A) and the second locking mechanism (26B) are configured to fix the first component (23A) and the second component (24A) in a state where the first coupling surface (231) and the second coupling surface (241) are coupled.

[0096] According to this embodiment, the first component (23A) and the second component (24A) can be constructed separately, making it easier to attach the fastener (2A) to the cable (5) and the string (6). Furthermore, the first locking mechanism (26A) and the second locking mechanism (26B) ensure that the cable (5) and the string (6) are securely fixed to the fastener (2A).

[0097] The fastener (2, 2A) of the sixth embodiment has, in any one of the third to fifth embodiments, a first insertion hole (21) through which a cable (5) is passed by a first recess (232) and a third recess (242). A second insertion hole (22) through which a cord (6) is passed is formed by a second recess (233) and a fourth recess (243).

[0098] According to this embodiment, the cable (5) can be fixed to the fasteners (2, 2A) by passing the cable (5) through the first insertion hole (21). In addition, the movement of the string (6) can be restricted at the fasteners (2, 2A) by passing the string (6) through the second insertion hole (22).

[0099] In the seventh embodiment of the fastener (2, 2A), the diameter (D1) of the first insertion hole (21) is less than or equal to the diameter (S1) of the cable (5). The diameter (D2) of the second insertion hole (22) is greater than the diameter (S2) of the cord (6).

[0100] According to this embodiment, since the diameter of the first insertion hole (21) is less than or equal to the diameter of the cable (5), the cable (5) can be securely fixed to the fasteners (2, 2A) by passing the cable (5) through the first insertion hole (21).

[0101] The outlet system (100) of the eighth embodiment comprises a fastener (2, 2A) of any one of the first to seventh embodiments and an outlet (1). The outlet (1) has a connector (3), a housing (4), a cable (5), and a cord (6). The connector (3) is connected to a wiring duct (50) and supplied with power. The housing (4) houses an outlet section (10) into which the electrodes (102) of a plug (101) are inserted. The cable (5) is connected to the connector (3) and supplies power to the outlet section (10). The cord (6) is attached to the connector (3) and suspends the housing (4).

[0102] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to suppress the large distance between the cable (5) and the cord (6) in the outlet system (100).

[0103] In the ninth embodiment of the outlet system (100), the cable (5) is formed in a spiral shape with respect to the cord (6) as the eighth embodiment.

[0104] According to this embodiment, for example, by forming the cable (5) into a gentle spiral shape centered on the cord (6), it becomes easier to maintain the cable (5) in a nearly straight state.

[0105] In the tenth embodiment of the outlet system (100), in the eighth or ninth embodiment, the outlet (1) further comprises a reel (7). The reel (7) is rotatably housed within a housing (4) and is configured to wind up a cord (6).

[0106] According to this embodiment, it becomes possible to adjust the length of the string (6).

[0107] An outlet system (100) in an eleventh embodiment further comprises, in the tenth embodiment, an outlet (1) a stopper (8) and an operating button (9). The stopper is displaced between a restricting position that restricts the rotation of the reel (7) in the direction of winding the cord (6) and a release position that allows the rotation of the reel (7). The operating button (9) displaces the stopper (8) between the restricting position and the release position.

[0108] According to this embodiment, the length of the string (6) can be changed with simple operations.

[0109] The configurations relating to the second to seventh aspects are not essential to the fastener (2) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0110] The configurations relating to the 9th to 11th aspects are not essential to the outlet system (100) and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 1 outlet 2 fasteners 3 Connection part 4 cabinets 5 Cables 6 String 7 reels 8 Stoppers 9 Operation buttons 10. Outlet section 11 Insertion hole 21 First insertion hole (fixing part) 22 Second insertion hole (regulating section) 23, 23A Part 1 231 1st bonding surface 232 First recess 233 Second recess 24, 24A Part 2 241 Second bonding surface 242 Third recess 243 Fourth recess 25 Hinge mechanism 26 Locking mechanism 26A First locking mechanism 26B Second locking mechanism 50 Wiring duct 100 outlet system 101 Plug 102 electrode D1 Diameter of the first insertion hole D2 Diameter of the second insertion hole S1 Cable diameter S2 Diameter of the string

Claims

1. A connection point that is connected to the wiring duct and supplied with power, A housing that contains the outlet section into which the plug electrodes are inserted, A cable connected to the aforementioned connection part to supply power to the aforementioned outlet part, A fastener used for an electrical outlet, comprising a string attached to the connection part for suspending the housing, A fixing part for securing the cable, A restricting unit that restricts the horizontal movement of the string, Equipped with, Fastener.

2. It further comprises a first part and a second part, The first part and the second part are formed by joining them together. The fastener according to claim 1.

3. The first joint surface of the first component is provided with a first recess and a second recess. The second bonding surface of the second part is provided with a third recess corresponding to the first recess and a fourth recess corresponding to the second recess. In the state in which the first bonding surface and the second bonding surface are bonded, The cable is sandwiched and supported by the first recess and the third recess. The movement of the string is restricted by the second recess and the fourth recess. The fastener according to claim 2.

4. A hinge mechanism provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first part and the second part, The invention further comprises the first part and the second part, and a locking mechanism provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first part, The hinge mechanism is configured to open and close the second connecting surface of the second part relative to the first connecting surface of the first part, The locking mechanism is configured to fix the first component and the second component in a state where the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface are coupled together. The fastener according to claim 3.

5. The first part and the second part, and a first locking mechanism provided at the first end in the longitudinal direction of the first part, The invention further comprises the first component and the second component, and a second locking mechanism provided at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the first component, The first locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism are configured to fix the first component and the second component in a state where the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface are coupled together. The fastener according to claim 3.

6. The first recess and the third recess constitute a first insertion hole through which the cable passes. The second recess and the fourth recess form a second insertion hole through which the string is passed. The fastener according to claim 3.

7. The diameter of the first insertion hole is less than or equal to the diameter of the cable. The diameter of the second insertion hole is larger than the diameter of the string. The fastener according to claim 6.

8. A fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Equipped with an electrical outlet, The aforementioned outlet is A connection point that is connected to the wiring duct and supplied with power, A housing that contains the outlet section into which the plug electrodes are inserted, A cable connected to the aforementioned connection part to supply power to the aforementioned outlet part, A string attached to the aforementioned connection part for suspending the housing, Having, Outlet system.

9. The aforementioned cable is Formed in a spiral shape with the aforementioned string at its center, The outlet system according to claim 8.

10. The aforementioned outlet is The housing further comprises a reel that is rotatably housed within the housing and configured to wind up the string. The outlet system according to claim 8.

11. The aforementioned outlet is A stopper that is displaced between a restricting position that restricts the rotation of the reel in the direction of winding the string, and a release position that allows the rotation of the reel, The system further includes an operating button for displacing the stopper between the aforementioned restricting position and the aforementioned release position. The outlet system according to claim 10.

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